This is an illustration I made for a card game called Mystic Vale. Down below I have included a step by step process of how I made this image!
https://www.alderac.com/mystic_vale/
The assignment brief was "The marsh is a boggy swamp with trees growing directly out of the algae covered water. An elf ranger guards the marsh diligently against any intruder. Designs for the elf should reflect the natural habitat of the marsh region so there is distinction between his forest cousins. "
Rough B&W Thumbnails to present to the client. Usually when working with a client, rather than sending them something that is highly detailed and in color, I offer them 2-3 rough sketches. The reason being is so that I can get a better idea of what the client wants. If I present 2-3 sketches, it starts a discussion and we have something to work from. This also saves time from having to making any major corrections and also keeps the client happy.
The client was satisfied with the 2nd composition. So here I started to introduce color.
Added the elf figure
Adding more detail
The client wanted a human druid/ranger instead of a troll looking one, so redrew the figure.
Adjusting the pose
Just adding more detail in the environment
The client wanted the ranger to blend in more with the environment, so I put him under more shadow. I also added a helmet over his head. His equipment is organic in design and made out of wood, thus helping him further blend in with the surroundings.
The client wanted the environment to feel a bit more exotic, so I started adding more variety in the plants. Also, I am introducing more cool atmosphere in the background, giving the image more depth.
To make it feel more exotic and lively, I started adding animals in the environment. Frog in this one.
Snake in this one. Also continuing to add more detail.
Finally finished with a happy little parrot! :-)